Science Confirms That Doula-support Improves Outcomes

After many thousands of years of doula-support, science is finally confirming what women have known all along: that doulas improve birth outcomes. In fact, the emerging body of evidence is strong enough to be propelling doula-support into mainstream healthcare.

Science Confirms That Doula-support Improves Outcomes

An expectant mother who receives doula-support feels more confident in herself and her abilities to do one of the most challenging tasks she may ever tackle. Having the physical and emotional support of a doula during this time has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which can lower the chance of birthing complications. A doula-supported birth also results in shorter labor time, less pain, and a reduction in the need for epidurals, cesareans, and invasive birthing instruments.

A doula-supported birth not only benefits the mother but the infant as well. The studies have shown that infants born using this practice have a higher Apgar score. They also experience fewer birth complications, higher birth weight, and higher early breastfeeding scores. This type of support also strengthens the mother-infant bond and increases their positive interaction. Tentative findings now suggest that doula-supported mothers may experience lower incidents of postpartum depression.

With all these positive effects, it’s hard to believe it took the medical community so long to recognize it. In fact, here is a list of 17 studies that evidence the immense benefit that doulas have birthing outcomes. 

Take a deeper dive into the science over at: https://wetheparents.org/doula-science